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Celebrating Life Events at St Philips
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Baptisms, weddings and funerals bring the Church of England into close contact with around half a million people every year. As part of the church of England, St Philips West Howe is here for you at every stage of life.
​Baptism/Christening
Baptism (sometimes called a Christening) is a special way of celebrating God’s love and becoming part of His family. It marks the start of a journey of faith – for children and adults alike.
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For children, parents and godparents make promises to help them grow in faith, and for adults, baptism is a way of saying “yes” to following Jesus. In every baptism, the church promises to support and pray for you.
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If you’d like to explore baptism for yourself or your child, we’d love to talk with you. There's no pressure, just a chance to ask questions and find our more
Tel. 01202 581135
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​​​​​​​​You can also find out more information on the Church of England website .
Thanksgiving Services
A service of thanksgiving gives you the opportunity to welcome your child into the world, to say thank you to God for them and to ask God's blessing on them and your family. Unlike baptism you aren’t asked to make any promises about faith on behalf of yourself or your child and you can still choose to have your child baptised as a later stage if and when you feel ready.​
​Marriage
Getting married is a joyful and life-changing step, and we’d love to celebrate it with you here at St Philip’s. A church wedding is about more than just a beautiful setting – it’s about asking for God’s blessing on your life together and beginning your marriage in His presence.
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Whether you’re already connected to St Philip’s or simply looking for a welcoming church for your big day, we’re here to help.
If you live in the Parish it's pretty straightforward and if you don’t, you may still be able to get married here if you have a qualifying connection according to Church of England rules
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Click here for guide to the qualifying connections
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​​If you’d like to find out more about getting married at St Philip’s, please get in touch – we’d be delighted to talk with you. We can guide you through what’s involved, help you plan the service, and support you as you prepare for married life.
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The Church of England Wedding site has loads of information about a church wedding, including the qualifying connections, just click on this link and it will take you to the Church of England Wedding Site ​https://www.churchofengland.org/life-events/your-church-wedding​​
Funerals
When someone we love dies, we want to give thanks for their life, commend them to God’s care, and find comfort and hope together. Church of England funerals can take place here at St Philip’s, at a local crematorium, or at the graveside.
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We will walk with you through every step of the process to make sure the service reflects your loved one’s life and brings comfort and hope to those who gather.​​​​
All enquiries' please call 01202 581485 and leave a message. The church office answerphone is checked twice a week and someone will get back to you.
​​Usually, a funeral director will contact us on your behalf to make arrangement but you are also very welcome to get in touch with us directly if you would like to talk through options or ask any questions.​
For all baptism, thanksgiving, wedding and funeral enquiries
​​📞 Call 01202 581135